Hydrochus squamifer
This record describes Hydrochus squamifer (species). Recorded family: Hydrochidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
There is a southern species, H. jaechi Makhan, that also has expanded apices of the parameres. Known from FL, LA, MS, and TX.
Wikipedia reference for Hydrochus squamifer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrochus_squamifer.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Hydrophiloidea
- Family
- Hydrochidae
- Genus
- Hydrochus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Lentic aquatic habitats, sometimes Sphagnum bogs.
Geographic Range
Transcontinental, BC-NB, south to NJ-MO-CA
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hydrochus squamifer. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Hydrochus squamifer (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Bbarnd
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrochus squamifer
What is Hydrochus squamifer?
Hydrochus squamifer is a species in the family Hydrochidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hydrochus squamifer?
3.3-4.2 mm
Where is Hydrochus squamifer found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Lentic aquatic habitats, sometimes Sphagnum bogs. |
| Range | Transcontinental, BC-NB, south to NJ-MO-CA |